Question-In which state Bhitarkanika National Park is situated?
(a)Odisha
(b)Uttarakhand
(c)Rajasthan
(d)Punjab
Answer- (a)
Related facts-
- World- class interpretation center is being set up by Odisha government at Dangamal near Bhitarkanika national park to showcase its efforts in protecting crocodiles and preserving its rich mangrove diversity.
- The project has been approved under the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Project; its estimated cost is of Rs 3 crore.
About Bhitarkanika –
- Bhitarkanika national park is located in Kendrapara district of Odisha .It is one of the biodiversity hotspots. The park is famous for its green mangroves, migratory birds, turtles, crocodiles estuarine and creeks.
Baula project at Dangamal-
- ‘Baula’ is Oriya word, means, Saltwater Crocodile. At Dangmal in Bhitarkanika sanctuary, salt-water crocodile eggs have been collected locally; and young crocodiles have been released in the creeks and the estuaries; and more than 2200 crocodiles have been released in different phases since 1977.
- This operation has been reasonably successful and the crocodile population in the Bhitarkanika river system has been increasing gradually. More than 50 released female Saltwater Crocodiles have laid eggs in the wild and bred successfully.
About Ghariyal-
- Fish eating Crocodile (also called Gharial or Gavial) is a Critically Endangered species in the red list of IUCN.
- In India it is found in Girwa River, Chambal River, Ken River, Son River, Mahanadi River and Ramganga River.
References-
http://www.odishawildlife.org/projectcrocodile.html
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/odisha-to-showcase-its-biodiversity/article24710686.ece
https://www.wildlife.odisha.gov.in/webportal/CrocodileConservation.aspx